Niall Ó Brolcháin (Green Party)

I welcome the Minister of State, Deputy John Moloney, and congratulate him on the various initiatives he is bringing forward. I very much support Senator Bradford in this regard. As I have walked and cycled throughout my constituency, I know it is 100 miles long. As we see centres of excellence developing at a high level and given that some local hospitals are closing, it is important we ensure provision of primary health care services to a very high standard locally in many parts of the country in order that people do not have to travel long distances for to undergo basic procedures.

The Government's policy is very welcome. I agree with Senator Bradford that it is time we got on with this development and pushed the provision of primary health care services in a big way. I commend the Minister of State for his efforts to date. I am delighted Senator Bradford asked me to take part in this debate because it is something we need to support across the parties. I note that health care is no longer as big an issue as it was in previous years. Real progress has been made by the Department of Health and Children and I hope we can make further progress.

I had the honour to represent Galway city at a World Health Organization conference in Finland which is now the top country in terms of health care, despite coming from a position similar to Ireland. Primary health care was one of the key factors which helped Finland to become the top country for health care services.